As a convicted felon who has completed their criminal sentence and returned home, it can be difficult to adjust. This is not only a result of what’s changed since you’ve been locked up but also due to the permanent stain on your reputation. You may have been convicted of a criminal charge in the past, but you’ve done your time and are ready to become a contributing member of society. However, every time you go to fill out an application, and they ask if you have a criminal history, you’re required to check the box saying yes.
You may have picked up a skill or trade while incarcerated, but actually making money from it can be nearly impossible when you can’t get hired. As a result of this frustration, many individuals decide to partake in the same illegal activity that got them arrested in the first place. We are here to tell you that you do not need to take that route.
The Orlando pardons lawyers at The Umansky Law Firm are here to make you aware of your legal options. Through a granted pardons, you are reinstated the rights of citizenship of which you possessed prior to incarceration, including the right to bear arms. Contact a respected defense attorney to begin the process today.
Only an executive member of government can grant a pardon. For state crimes, the governor must grant the pardon; for federal crimes, the president must grant the pardon.
Florida law states that the governor may, “by executive order filed with the Secretary of State, suspend collection of fines and forfeitures, grant reprieves not exceeding 60 days, and, with the approval of two members of the Cabinet, grant full or conditional pardons, restore civil rights, commute punishment, and remit fines and forfeitures for offenses.” Fla. Stat. §§ 940.01.
A pardon is an act of clemency which is overseen by the Clemency Board. The chief financial officer, attorney general, agriculture commissioner and governor make up the board. The governor has the power to deny any claim for clemency for any reason.
Individuals are not eligible for a pardon until ten years after they’ve been released. The individual also cannot have any outstanding financial obligations that resulted from the conviction. The state prohibits individuals who were convicted of particular criminal offenses from being granted a pardon. One can determine his or her eligibility by speaking with a seasoned pardons attorney.
The governor or president can grant various types of pardons. Ranging from a full pardon to a conditional pardon, each has its specifications that differentiate it from the next. The types of pardons include:
If you believe you qualify for a pardon, contact an Orlando pardons lawyer with The Umansky Law Firm for a free consultation. We can discuss your eligibility and legal options moving forward.